Using the notion of institutionalization process as a way to assess the success or failure of an education decentralization initiative like the formation of Rural Networks of Schools in Peru in 2002, the objective of this study has been to identify the conditions or factors that would most likely lead to one or other outcome (success or failure). This is a case study. A comparative method was used, consequently two versions or models of Rural Networks of Schools were compared and two geographical spaces were selected, this were the cases of the Rural Network of Schools of Patacancha in the department of Cusco and the Rural Network of Schools of Cullhuas in the department of Junín. The fieldwork was conducted between May 30 and August 16 of 2002.